Be careful before you throw away old photographs. They could be worth a lot more than you think. Daguerreotypes and other early photographs can do especially well at auction.
What makes a photo collectible?
If the photo isn’t a portrait you may be in luck. Non-portrait photos taken even into the early 1900s are quite collectible and may be worth more than you’d think.
Daguerreotypes are always popular. That style of photography was popular in the 1800s, after Louis Daguerre invented the process of using iodine vapors to sensitize plates of polished silver.
Daguerre was not the only one pioneering photography around that time: William Fox Talbot introduced the use of photo negatives. Daguerre’s method was originally the most popular in America, and remains the most popular among collectors today. Other photo types which might prove valuable include the ambrotype (taken on glass), and the tintype (taken on iron). You can tell the difference between those two types by viewing them at an angle. The dark areas on a daguerreotype will appear to be silver. You might also spot a little tarnishing around the edges.
Daguerreotypes were usually stored in protective Gutta percha cases. Photos still in those cases tend to be more valuable. We also see them in mother-of-pearl cases. Historical notes can help provide context, which can also increase the value of the photo.
How much are daguerreotypes and other old photographs worth?
Their value depends largely on the subject matter. Photographs of great historical significance can sell for over $100,000, whereas a portrait might have very little value.
Subject matter isn’t the only source of value, though. As with all collectibles, the condition of the photo also matters. Handle all old photos with care, especially daguerreotypes, which damage easily. You can ruin them just by brushing a finger over the surface. For that reason, you should never try to clean one.
Collections representing a single photographer or subject can be more valuable than a farrago of photos, but you’ll need a professional appraisal to determine whether your group of photos qualifies as a collection, for the purposes of fetching higher prices.
Want to sell an antique or vintage camera, or camera accessories?
From giant antique cameras to flash bulbs, cameras and camera accessories also can sell for large sums at auction. Of course, we can appraise and auction your camera and any photography gear.
“Central Mass Auctions auctioned a large lot of photos of mine that I’ve wanted to sell for a long time. I expected maybe half would sell and I’d get a large box back that weren’t worth much. Every lot except one sold at fair prices. This is the best place to get your items sold for the best price as far as I’m concerned. Wayne and his crew do and outstanding job far above most auction houses. I highly recommend.” – Lawrence Hyde (see review on Google Maps)
Central Mass Auctions can sell your photographs, cameras, or other photography items at auction
You’ll get a professional appraisal from professionals who have been in the business for decades. You’ll get the chance to make money from something you might have thrown away or donated to Goodwill. You might discover you have more treasure than trash.
Once we’ve appraised your photographs we can position them so their value is clear to antique-photography enthusiasts.
Call Central Mass Auctions at 508-612-6111, or contact us online, to discuss next steps on your photograph or collection.
